BOSTON — July 4th is right around the corner and here, like so many places around the country, there will be fireworks galore. But the light show doesn’t always mean a good time, especially for your pets at home.
Loud fireworks can cause extreme anxiety in pets who don’t understand what’s going on.
“The 4th of July is the number one day that pets go missing,” said Veterinarian Cherice Roth.
According to Rover.com, 71% of pet parents say their dog is afraid of the loud ‘boom’ of fireworks and 30% of owners say they even decide to skip out on the July 4th celebrations in order to stay and comfort their furry kids.
However, trainers say there are a couple of things that can help, including a little-known technique called sound or noise desensitization.
First, you want to play the triggering noise of fireworks using your iPhone or speakers.
Then you want to slowly turn up the volume and play with them so they learn the noises are not necessarily a bad thing.
“Play fetch. Do fun things while these loud bangs are going on in your home. We can start to get them used to it and create a less stressful experience when the actual fireworks occur,” said Nicole Ellis a certified dog trainer.
Some other ideas that could help your dogs and cats include, keeping your pet indoors during the show, giving them a lot of love, using a thunder shirt or a pressure wrap, and distracting them if all else fails.
Dr. Roth also says to consider asking your vet for medication to keep them calm.
“For some pets, that is the only thing that is gonna help to get them through it and there’s no shame, as a pet parent, going to your veterinarian and saying, ‘Hey. I need help,” says Roth.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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